The complete solution for third-generation wireless communications: two modes on air, one winning strategy

Due to the increasing number of users in mobile communications and the demand for mobile multimedia services with high data rates, third-generation mobile radio systems are currently one of the key communication technologies in research, development, and international standardization bodies. This article summarizes the international standardization activities for this new technology, outlines its key applications, and provides an overview of UMTS as specified by the 3GPP. Moreover, an overview of capacity-enhancing features such as joint (multi-user) detection and smart antennas is given. Finally, we develop a vision for mobile communications beyond the third generation.